Last week we shared in our Harmony Week celebrations when students across the school participated in a wide range of activities.

Amazing Performances

We had 23 Junior School students from Years 3–6 performing as part of our Harmony Week clips throughout the week and it was wonderful to see them sharing their culture. However, this was just the start — we also had a live lunchtime performance by Senior School students showcasing everything from a group Irish dance involving five of our Year 12s to the music of Paul Kelly being shared as well as various individual and group performances showcasing different styles of Indian dance. The crowd was delighted by the range and talent of our Senior School students. Then, at our Foundation – Year 2 Parade we had Year 6 boys drumming, Year 5 Afghani dancers and Year 2 students sharing Indian and Sri Lankan dances. They all did a wonderful job, with their hard work and practice paying off.

Lunchtime Classes and Delicious Food

Students from Year 3 upwards had the chance to enjoy a special Harmony Week themed lunch order thanks to Bazil’s Catering, which many people enjoyed. Not only this, but in Senior School we enjoyed special French and Canadian lunches with the students in the class learning to make their own Croque Monsieur sandwich and the extremely popular Canadian dish Poutine. Years 5 and 6 were treated to a shortbread class with our Principal Mrs Williams who shared her Scottish heritage. A big thanks to Mrs Mathews, Mrs Williams and Ms Blanchard for organising these experiences for our students.

In addition to lunches, we also had an Irish dance class, run by Year 12 student Tara which was enjoyed by all who attended. We are so grateful for the way staff and students support these opportunities in practical ways.

Parade Time

On our final day of Harmony Week students dressed in both orange and cultural clothing in a colourful display of our diversity. The Foundation –Year 2 students participated in a parade where they were treated to performances by CGS students from Year 2 all the way to Year 12. It was also wonderful see so many parents and family members come along to see their children in the parade.

Creativity in Action

It is a joy to see the many classroom activities that take place in Harmony Week. We enjoyed many art and craft activities including creating our own rangoli. Even some of our youngest Foundation students were involved in carefully placing their patterns in place. We also had a lot of fun creating origami and our beautiful Harmony Week bird display that can be seen in the Chapel windows. Every bird represents one of our Foundation – Year 2 students and the idea that we all rise together when we seek harmony and understanding.

A Sport Loved by Millions – Cricket

For the second year in Senior School and the first in Junior School we had our staff vs student cricket matches. The crowds enthusiastically cheered, and everyone had a great time in the friendly competition. Thanks to all the staff and students involved in playing and organising.

Henna at the Swimming Sports

A fantastic group of SS students shared their skills in henna designs at the swimming sports whilst also raising money to support our fundraising this week for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. It was great to see staff and students getting a range of different designs by our talented henna artists.

Heel and Toe

Year 7 students had a great time at the Wellbeing Bush Dance on Wednesday. There was plenty of laughter as the students all entered the spirit of the Bush Dance and, in the process, learnt about a traditional style of dance in Australia adapted from various cultures of early settlers.

Hopefully this gives you a small insight into a full and fun week. Thank you to everyone for their involvement in the spirit of Harmony Week.

You are invited to our Community Communion Service

All families were sent a letter about our first Community Communion Service on Monday 31 March. If you would like to attend, please reply to m.riviere-pendle@caseygrammar.vic.edu. You can attend as a part of the service, or alternatively you can contact me if you would like to do a reading and be involved in the service more directly. Everyone is welcome to join us.

Every blessing for the week ahead.

Monique Riviere-Pendle

Chaplain